FSHISD Welcomes New Elementary School Principal

When the opening bell rings at Fort Sam Houston Elementary School for the 2016-2017 school year, there will be a new principal leading the campus. Dr. Joseph Cerna joins the faculty and staff with a strong commitment to meeting the needs of the military child and building relationships with parents and the community.

Cerna began his career as an elementary teacher in Edgewood ISD and then San Antonio ISD. After six years as a classroom teacher, Dr. Cerna worked in the San Antonio Independent School District as a Campus Instructional Coordinator and Literacy Coach for a year and then an elementary assistant principal for two years. For the last eight years he has served as an elementary principal in that district.

“I am honored to work in a community that supports our nation and truly values education,” shared Dr. Cerna. “I look forward to an exciting year working with the students, parents and staff.”

Cerna replaces Dr. Tonya Hyde, who accepted an assistant superintendent position in the Lackland ISD.

A native of San Antonio, Dr. Cerna earned two Bachelor’s degrees, both in Government and in Sociology from The University of Texas at Austin. His credentials also include a Master’s degree in Educational Administration and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, from The University of Texas at San Antonio.

“As a transformational leader, Dr. Cerna’s background and experience aligns closely with our District’s beliefs and emphasis on providing engaging, challenging, and meaningful work for learners,” stated Dr. Gail Siller, Superintendent of Fort Sam Houston Independent School District.

In his spare time, Cerna enjoys listening to music, running and taking day trips with his family. Married to wife Lisa almost 20 years, they are the proud parents of one daughter who will be a senior this year. Both look forward to attending school events.